Lightened-Up Vodka Rosé Pasta

A festive, creamy pasta featuring a light tomato-vodka sauce, adorned with fresh spinach and roasted red peppers for a cheerful holiday presentation.

This pasta has become a holiday staple in my family, reminding us of cozy gatherings and joyful celebrations.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) whole wheat penne or rigatoni
• Sauce: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 cup (120 ml) vodka, 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat or plant-based cream, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Festive Red & Green: 1 cup (150 g) jarred roasted red peppers drained and cut into strips, 3 cups (90 g) baby spinach leaves
• Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped, Extra grated Parmesan

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water, then drain pasta.

Step 2:

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft about 3 4 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes cook 1 minute more.

Step 3:

Pour in vodka and simmer for 2 3 minutes letting it reduce by half.

Step 4:

Stir in crushed tomatoes. Simmer gently for 8 10 minutes stirring occasionally.

Step 5:

Lower heat and mix in the cream and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6:

Add roasted red peppers and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts 2 3 minutes.

Step 7:

Toss cooked pasta into the sauce adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.

Step 8:

Serve sprinkled with basil and extra Parmesan.

Pin

My family loves coming together around this pasta dish every Christmas it always brings smiles and laughter.

Notes

Pairs well with a light Italian red wine like Chianti for a perfect holiday meal pairing.

Required Tools

Large pot, Large skillet, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten) milk (dairy Parmesan cream). For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free vegan use plant-based cream and cheese. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

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This lightened-up Christmas pasta is sure to delight your guests and become a holiday favorite for years to come.

Recipe Q&A

→ What pasta types work best in this dish?

Whole wheat penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, providing a hearty texture that complements the creamy vodka rosé sauce.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute plant-based cream and a vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the dish creamy without dairy.

→ How do the roasted red peppers affect the flavor?

They add a sweet, smoky note that brightens the richness of the sauce and enhances the festive color palette.

→ Is vodka necessary for the sauce?

Vodka helps release flavors from the tomatoes and adds subtle depth, but you may omit it if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I add more vegetables?

Try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or peas for added texture and nutritional variety.